TRANSPORT PHENOMENA IN SUPERCRITICAL-FLUID EXTRACTION

A scaling analysis is performed to study transport phenomena in the su percritical fluid extraction process. Two typical systems, one solid-f luid and one liquid-fluid, are investigated. Characteristic velocities and time scales of each transport process are determined by force bal ances. The dominant driving Force in each existing phase and the rate- determining factor of the entire system are identified. Enhancements o f practical applications towards more energy efficient operations are suggested. For situations with insufficient solute transport, differen t methods of improvement are discussed.